Save the hassle of packing your belongings time after time and let us be your home away from home. Rich in history and beauty, the Mackinaw area offers many ideal destinations just a short drive away. The following are examples of day trips that include many of the scenic and historical sites found in Northern Michigan.

2019 Winter Festival

Please note Dates, Times & Events may change due to weather or any other unforeseen conditions beyond our control!

Amateur Snow Sculpting competition, Sleigh/Wagon Rides, Outhouse Races at Shepler’s Dock, Poker Walk, Art Show at Mackinaw Clothing, Chili Cook Off at MaMa Mia’s Pizzeria and Euchre Tournament at the Senior Center. Enjoy the before, after and during party at the Dixie Saloon. Saturday, January 19, 2019 ~ Ice Fishing tournament from 8am to 2pm at MDNR public access {Ice Depth Safety & Weather Permitting}, additional registration and information can be found on the Paradise Lake Association website. Many more Fun Winter Activities.

Additional information is below on each of the 2019 WinterFest Activities & Events happening in Mackinaw City. Come enjoy the winter fun!

*Please check often for updates!

Mackinaw Pepsi International Outhouse Races

Outhouse Races:scheduled for Saturday at 2pm on the Shepler’s Lot located on Huron Ave and Central Ave. This novelty event starts with the parade of outhouses which proves to be creative, colorful and entertaining – a must see!

1st Place Cash Prize ~ $500

2nd Place Cash Prize ~ $300

3rd Place Cash Prize ~ $200

$100 Cash Prize for “Best In Show“

The races are open to Adult & Junior Teams. Rules are as follows: The Outhouse must be 4x4x6on skis. Must have a 5 person team {1-must ride & 4-push or pull}. The Outhouse must have a Toilet Seat and have Material to Wipe with. Entry must have a Name. Entrants under 18 must have a parent’s signature and ALL teams and participants must sign a waiver. For more information and registration visit: www.mackinawouthouserace.com or call 231-436-5493.

Chili Cook Off Competition! Saturday January 19th, 2019

Chili Cook-Off Competition:begins at Mama Mia’s Pizzeria located at: 231 East Central Ave. from 11:00 am and runs till 1:00 pm. Come early to taste and vote for your favorite recipe. To place an entry a registration form is needed and registrations will be accepted until space is full. Tasting and people’s choice awards require a Winter Fest Button. Rules and entry forms are available from the Chamber of Commerce 231-436-5574.

Euchre Tournament

Euchre Tournament: from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm has a $10.00 entry fee with a Winter Fest button. Action takes place at the Senior Center of Mackinaw City located: 205 Cedar Street. Registration begins at 1:30 {Must be 18 yrs or older to participate in Tournament – verify location on event day}. For more information on this fun and warm event please call the Chamber of Commerce at: 231-436-5574.

Most of activities are free with a 2019 Winter Fest Button. Buttons can be purchased for $3.00 each or 4 for $10 at the Chamber of Commerce Office, various businesses around town and at each event site during the festival until they are all gone.

***Please verify all locations on Event day****

See you there!!!

Winterfest Ice Fishing Tournament

Carp Lake Marina {weather permitting}, only 7 miles from Downtown Mackinaw City. Anglers can preregister at : Carp Lake General Store, Clyde’s Bar or Paradise Lake Marina. . All entry fees include a chance ticket valued at $5. The three categories to be judged are: Heaviest Pike, Heaviest Walleye and Heaviest Pan Fish. Cash Prizes for each category! Anglers may also preregister from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm on Friday, January 19th 2018 in the headquarters located at Paradise Lake Marina. Registration on the day of the tournament is from 6:30 am – 8:00 am in the headquarters. Good luck Anglers! For more information please call: (231) 537-4874